Loading map...

BIO destination photo
VCE destination photo

BIO β†’ VCE

Which side of the plane to sit from Bilbao Airport (Bilbao) to Venice Marco Polo Airport (Venice)?

Our Recommendation
9.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior sequence of views, starting with the northern Pyrenees and culminating in an iconic aerial panorama of the Venice historic center during the final approach.

Left Side Highlights
9.2
πŸ”οΈ

Pyrenees National Park

Dramatic views of the rugged northern slopes and deep green valleys of the Franco-Spanish border.

🏰

Carcassonne

The distinctive circular walls of the medieval CitΓ© de Carcassonne are often visible in southern France.

πŸ”οΈ

Massif Central

Ancient volcanic peaks and plateaus visible to the north while traversing the Occitanie region.

πŸ’§

Lake Garda

A stunning view of Italy's largest lake, showcasing its narrow northern fjord-like shape.

🎭

Historic Venice

The ultimate prize: the S-shaped Grand Canal and St. Mark's Square during the descent into VCE.

For the best experience, choose a window seat forward of the wing to ensure an unobstructed view of Venice. If the flight arrives in the afternoon, the sun will be behind you, providing perfect lighting for photography of the Venetian Lagoon. Be alert during the final 10 minutes of flight, as the approach path over the city depends on wind direction but frequently favors the left side for the classic 'city reveal'.

Right Side Highlights
8.5
🌊

Gulf of Lion

The vast expanse of the Mediterranean and the sweeping coastline of the Languedoc-Roussillon.

πŸ–οΈ

French Riviera

Distant but sparkling views of the CΓ΄te d'Azur, including the clusters of Marseille and Nice.

β›΅

Ligurian Coast

Where the Italian Alps meet the sea, offering a dramatic boundary of blue water and white peaks.

πŸ™οΈ

Po Valley Cities

Clear views of the urban grids of Turin and Milan against the backdrop of the southern Alps.

🚀

Venetian Lagoon Islands

A close-up view of the outlying islands like Chioggia and the Lido as the plane enters the final glideslope.

The right side is excellent for coastal enthusiasts. During morning flights, expect significant glare off the Mediterranean Sea. In winter, the right side provides a better angle for viewing the snow-capped peaks of the Maritime Alps. While you might miss the direct 'top-down' view of the Rialto Bridge, you get a much better sense of the lagoon's complex ecosystem and the MOSE flood barriers.

Top Activities in Venice
Route Information

Distance: 1,235 km (767 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 39 min

Departure: BIO (43.30110168457031, -2.9106099605560303)

Arrival: VCE (45.505299, 12.3519)

Route Type: International

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.